Many readers will be aware that Wycombe’s furniture-makers made an important contribution to the aircraft industry in both world wars. 

Not so well known is that during the first world war the district was home to a man who could boast that he had established the largest aircraft manufacturing enterprise in the world.

The man behind this enterprise was George Holt Thomas, who although almost unknown today, was a true aviation pioneer.

He is the subject of an excellent new book by local authors David Scott and Ian Simmons. They already have to their names one book on the local aircraft industry “High Wycombe’s Contribution to Aviation”. 

Their new book is a worthy successor. In fact their interest in Holt Thomas was raised when they were researching their first book.

The authors have meticulously researched the life of Holt Thomas from his birth in 1870 in Brixton, London to his death in 1929, when his home was North Dean House, near Naphill. 

His father William was a wood-engraver who eventually set up his own publishing business, and created The Graphic Illustrated, a rival publication to the London Illustrated News. During his 59 years his son too established his own company. 

He was the founder in 1911 of the Aircraft Supply Company, which was later renamed the Aircraft Manufacturing Company, known as “Airco”. 

The company expanded rapidly during the first world war and became the largest aircraft manufacturing establishment in the world. 

During WWI its designs represented about 30 per cent of allied aircraft. With the end of the war its demise was sudden and rapid.

Within its ninety pages this copiously illustrated book shows how through the drive and energy of Holt Thomas the British aviation industry was able to make such a significant contribution to the war effort. However his story is tinged with sadness. 

His efforts were recognised by the offer of a Knighthood, which he turned down. He died in hospital in Nice, France, but his only remembrance is a statement on his wife’s gravestone in a cemetery in Chiswick, London.

“George Holt Thomas, The man who created AIRCO” can be purchased from Ian Simmons 01494 531912 or email i.c.simmons@btinternet.com. 

The price is £10 if collected directly from Ian, but by post £12 (+£3 post & pkg.) It is also available at Wycombe Museum at £10.